A veterinary surgeon has highlighted six warning signs that could indicate your dog is suffering from Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), commonly known as doggy dementia. The condition is far more prevalent than many pet owners realise.
Disorientation in Familiar Surroundings
Dr Charlotte Rice, in-house veterinary surgeon at pet supplement brand YuMOVE, explains that one of the earliest indicators is a dog appearing lost or confused in familiar settings. If your pet seems bewildered in its own home, this should not be dismissed.
Changes in Interaction and Irritability
Another notable behavioural transformation is heightened irritability or altered engagement with people and other pets. Dr Rice notes that a dog that becomes snappy or nervous may be displaying signs of dementia. A previously calm and loving dog may become detached, excessively reactive, or anxious in once-comfortable situations.
Anxiety and Sensitivity
Anxiety is a key indicator, especially if your dog displays restlessness in routine circumstances. Pacing, whining, or shying away from physical contact can suggest heightened vulnerability. Dr Rice states that dogs with dementia can be more sensitive to sights and sounds, leading to stress. If anxiety appears without apparent cause, consult a vet.
Memory Loss and Sleep Disturbances
Memory loss may manifest as forgetting previously mastered training, such as toilet habits or basic commands. Dr Rice advises speaking to a vet if a well-house-trained dog starts having accidents indoors. Disturbed sleep patterns, restless nights, aimless wandering, and vacant staring are also frequently observed.
Activity Level Changes
Unexplained shifts in daily activity levels are another red flag. Dogs may sleep more or experience changes in their sleep-wake cycle.
While there is no known cure, Dr Rice urges owners to remain patient and compassionate. She advises: "Be loving and understanding with your furry friend - and kind to yourself too."
Six Signs of Doggy Dementia
- Appears lost or confused in familiar settings
- Becomes snappy or interacts differently
- Seems anxious
- Memory loss
- Sleeping more or changes to sleep pattern
- Activity patterns are changing
